updated 04:45 pm EDT, Tue July 6, 2010

SaskTel promises to launch HSPA+ on August 16

Canadian wireless provider SaskTel on Tuesday said it is beginning a technical trial of its HSPA+ 3G data network. Called 3G+, the service will be limited to certain SaskTel employees, and last for six weeks. The idea is to find and resolve any technical issues for a problem-free commercial experience, which is due to go online August 16.

On that date, coverage will be limited to large Saskatchewan cities such as Regina, Saskatoon, Moose Jaw, Weyburn, Yorkton, Swift Current, Prince Albert, North Battleford and most of the highways connecting them. The entire province is said to get the service by the end of the year.

At the same time, SaskTel confirmed it will add the BlackBerry Bold 9700, BlackBerry Pearl 9100, Nokia 7230, Nokia 6350 and a Novatel MC998D USB data stick to its device lineup by August 16. The provider is still negotiation for the iPhone 4 but doesn't have an update on progress.

SaskTel President and CEO Robert Watson says this HSPA+ network project is a key one as it paves the way for a smooth transition to the next-generation 4G LTE network. [viaMobileSyrup]